10 Free Things To Experience In Manitou Springs

Nestled at the base of Pikes Peak, Manitou Springs is an enchanting town that promises visitors with a unique blend of art, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're a local or a tourist, there's always something free to experience in this charming destination. With that said, here's an exciting rundown of the 10 Free Things to Experience in Manitou Springs that will blow your mind and leave you with an unforgettable adventure. So get ready to explore this gem of a town and indulge in its breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, and vibrant culture, all without breaking the bank!

Hiking the Manitou Incline

Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Manitou Springs is a small town with big adventures. One of these adventures, the Manitou Incline, is a must-do for any outdoor enthusiast visiting the area.

The Manitou Incline is a challenging hiking trail that ascends 2,000 vertical feet in just under one mile. Originally built as a cable car track to transport materials up to a water tank at the top of the mountain, the Incline was transformed into a hiking trail in the 1990s.

The trailhead starts in the town of Manitou Springs, with ample parking available nearby. From there, hikers will begin their ascent up the steep wooden steps that make up the Incline. While the hike is challenging, the views are well worth it, with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

During your hike up the Incline, be sure to take breaks frequently to catch your breath and enjoy the scenery. The trail is steep and can be slippery at times, and it’s important to stay hydrated and wear appropriate hiking shoes.

At the top of the Manitou Incline, hikers will be rewarded with stunning views of Pikes Peak and the surrounding area. It’s the perfect spot to rest, refuel with some snacks, and take some photos to capture the memories.

After the hike, visit the charming town of Manitou Springs to enjoy some local food and shopping. The town offers numerous boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants to explore.

If you’re looking for a challenging but rewarding hiking experience in Manitou Springs, the Manitou Incline is a must-do. It’s a free activity that offers some of the most spectacular views in the area, so be sure to add it to your itinerary on your next Colorado adventure.

Walking through Garden of the Gods

Manitou Springs is a charming town located in Colorado, USA. It is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful nature reserves and stunning mountain scenery. One of the most breathtaking natural attractions near Manitou Springs is the Garden of the Gods. Located just a few miles west of Colorado Springs, this park offers a unique experience for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the American Southwest. The best way to enjoy the Garden of the Gods is to explore it on foot. Here are some of the things you should know before embarking on your walking adventure through this stunning park.

Firstly, it is essential to plan for your hike. There are multiple trails of varying difficulty levels that you can choose from. If you're new to hiking, start off with one of the easier or moderate trails, such as the Perkins Central Garden Trail. The trail is a 1.5-mile loop that provides stunning views of the park's red rock formations. It takes approximately 30 minutes to complete the trail, making it perfect for beginners or people who do not want to spend much time hiking.

For more experienced hikers or those looking for a challenge, the Siamese Twins trail is a great option. This trail is over two miles long, and it is quite challenging due to its elevation gain and rugged terrain. However, the trail rewards hikers with stunning views of the park's largest rock formations.

Secondly, always remember to wear appropriate clothing and footwear. The park is situated at an elevation of over 6,000 feet, and the weather can change rapidly. It is not uncommon for there to be sudden rain showers during the summer months, so always bring a rain jacket. Additionally, the trails can be quite rocky, so make sure to wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction.

Thirdly, be respectful of your surroundings. The Garden of the Gods is a protected area, and visitors are expected to follow the rules and regulations. Stay on designated trails and do not climb or touch the rock formations. Remember to carry any trash out with you and leave the park the way you found it.

Walking through the Garden of the Gods offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and explore the beautiful features of the American Southwest. With careful planning, appropriate clothing and footwear, and a respectful attitude towards your surroundings, you can have an unforgettable experience in this breathtaking park. So grab your backpack, lace up your boots, and hit the trails!

Exploring the Manitou Springs Heritage Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Manitou Springs Heritage Center and Museum
Type	Museum in Manitou Springs, Colorado
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 47
Address	517 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829
Phone	(719) 685-1454
Hours	Thursday - 12–4 PM Friday - 12–4 PM Saturday - 12–4 PM Sunday - Closed Monday - Closed Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - Closed
Profiles

If you're looking for a unique and fascinating way to explore the history of Manitou Springs, the Manitou Springs Heritage Center is a must-visit destination. This free museum offers invaluable insights into the city's heritage, culture, and way of life, and is a must-see for anyone interested in local history.

Housed in a restored 1905 schoolhouse, the Heritage Center is packed with exhibits that cover everything from the Native American tribes that once called the area home to the gold rush that put Manitou on the map in the late 1800s. Visitors can explore the center's many rooms and galleries, which are filled with artifacts, photographs, and other historical artifacts.

One of the highlights of the Heritage Center is the "Then and Now" exhibit, which showcases the changes that have taken place in Manitou over the years. Visitors can see photographs of the city from the late 1800s and compare them to modern shots, allowing them to get a sense of how much the city has transformed over time.

Another standout exhibit is the "Minerals and Mining" gallery, which explores the impact that mining had on Manitou and the surrounding area. Visitors can see examples of minerals that were mined in the Pikes Peak region, learn about the tools and techniques that miners used, and explore the role that mining played in shaping the city's economy and culture.

Other exhibits at the Heritage Center cover a wide range of topics, from the role that railroads played in the city's history to the art and culture of the region's Native American tribes. There's even a replica of a one-room schoolhouse, complete with desks, chalkboards, and other period-appropriate furnishings.

Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a fun and educational way to spend an afternoon, the Manitou Springs Heritage Center is definitely worth a visit. With its engaging exhibits, knowledgeable staff, and free admission, it's an excellent resource for anyone interested in exploring the rich history of this fascinating city.

Visiting the Penny Arcade

Characteristic	Description
Name	Manitou Springs Penny Arcade
Type	Video arcade in Manitou Springs, Colorado
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 3,176
Address	930 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829
Phone	(719) 685-9815
Hours	Thursday - 11 AM–6 PM Friday - 11 AM–8 PM Saturday - 11 AM–8 PM Sunday - 11 AM–8 PM Monday - 11 AM–6 PM Tuesday - 11 AM–6 PM Wednesday - 11 AM–6 PM
Profiles

Manitou Springs, located in Colorado, is a small town that’s full of charm and a perfect destination for travelers looking to experience a relaxing getaway. One of the highlights of Manitou Springs is its Penny Arcade, which draws visitors from all over to spend a few hours indulging in an old-fashioned gaming experience.

The Penny Arcade has been around for over 100 years and is a true blast from the past. The arcade is located on Manitou Avenue and features classic games such as pinball, air hockey, and skee-ball. A visit to the Penny Arcade is perfect for family outings or for friends who want to create new memories while taking a step back in time.

When visiting the Penny Arcade, the first thing you’ll notice is that you don’t need to bring any quarters. The arcade still uses traditional fun-punch cards, which can be purchased for $5 and offer an hour of non-stop gameplay. The Penny Arcade has more than 500 games, and each one will cost you a different amount of punches.

One of the most popular games in the arcade is the fortune-telling machine, Zoltar, which gained attention in the 1988 movie “Big” starring Tom Hanks. Visitors try their luck and insert a punch card to hear what the machine has to say about their future. Although it’s just for fun, it’s always exciting to see what Zoltar has to say!

Another classic game at the Penny Arcade is the photo booth. Visitors can take a series of photos with friends or loved ones and have them printed on-site. This is a great way to remember the experience and have a fun photo to hang up on the fridge!

Overall, a visit to the Penny Arcade is a must-do activity while in Manitou Springs. The arcade offers a unique and fun experience that’s enjoyable for all ages. So next time you’re in town, stop by the Penny Arcade and see what new memories you’ll create!

Soaking in the mineral springs

Characteristic	Description
Name	SunWater Spa
Type	Spa in Manitou Springs, Colorado
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	3.9 / 426
Address	514 El Paso Blvd, Manitou Springs, CO 80829
Phone	(719) 695-7007
Hours	Thursday - 8 AM–10 PM Friday - 8 AM–10 PM Saturday - 8 AM–10 PM Sunday - 8 AM–10 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - 8 AM–10 PM Wednesday - 8 AM–10 PM
Profiles

Manitou Springs, located at the base of Pikes Peak, is a popular destination for those seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. The town is famous for its natural mineral springs, which have been utilized for centuries for their healing properties. Among the many attractions in Manitou Springs, soaking in the mineral springs is perhaps the most enjoyable and beneficial activity you can indulge in.

There are eight natural mineral springs in the town, each with its own unique mineral composition and health benefits. Some of the most popular ones include the Manitou Soda Spring, which is rich in sodium bicarbonate and has a refreshing lemon-lime flavor, and the Navajo Spring, which contains a high concentration of iron, manganese, and magnesium.

One of the best places to experience the mineral springs is in the Manitou Springs Mineral Water Pavilion, which houses seven of the eight mineral springs. The pavilion is open year-round and offers free access to the springs. Each spring is labeled with its mineral content, and visitors can fill up their water bottles and sample the different flavors and benefits.

Another popular spot for soaking in the mineral springs is the SunWater Spa, where visitors can indulge in a variety of therapeutic treatments that utilize the healing properties of the water. The spa offers a range of services, including hot stone massages, mineral soaks, and hydrotherapy sessions, as well as yoga and meditation classes.

In short, soaking in the mineral springs of Manitou Springs is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the area. It's a relaxing, rejuvenating, and completely free experience that can help improve your health and wellbeing. Whether you're looking for an all-day spa retreat or a quick dip in the water, the mineral springs of Manitou Springs have something to offer for everyone.

Watching the sunset from the Manitou Springs overlook

Manitou Springs is a charming town situated at the base of Pikes Peak, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. One of the best spots to watch the spectacular sunset from in Manitou Springs is the Manitou Springs overlook.

Located on the ridge above the town, Manitou Springs overlook provides an unobstructed 360-degree view of the surrounding areas. Visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of the town, Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and the rolling foothills. With such amazing views, it's no wonder that Manitou Springs overlook is one of the most popular destinations in town.

Watching the sunset from Manitou Springs overlook is a quintessential Colorado experience. The colors of the sky change every minute, turning from bright orange to pink and purple hues. As the sun sinks behind the mountains, the town below is illuminated in a warm, golden light, setting the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening or a family outing.

To get to the Manitou Springs overlook, visitors can take a short hike up the Manitou Incline. The historic Incline is a challenging but rewarding hike, consisting of over 2,700 steps that climb up the mountain at an average grade of 45 degrees. Once on top, it's less than a ten-minute walk to reach the overlook.

Alternatively, visitors can drive up via Ruxton Avenue, which provides an easier route up to the scenic overlook. Visitors can park their car in one of the designated parking spots and then take the short walk up to the overlook.

If you plan to watch the sunset from Manitou Springs overlook, we recommend bringing a light jacket or sweater, as the temperature can drop significantly after dusk. Pack a picnic and enjoy the views while you eat, or bring a camera to capture the moment. No matter how you decide to experience it, watching the sunset from Manitou Springs overlook is an unforgettable experience.

In conclusion, the Manitou Springs overlook offers a stunning view of the surrounding areas, and watching the sunset from this vantage point is an extraordinary experience. The hardest part is tearing yourself away from the captivating views. Whether hiking up the Manitou Incline or driving up Ruxton Avenue, visitors to Manitou Springs cannot miss this breathtaking attraction.

Enjoying art at The Commonwheel

Characteristic	Description
Name	Commonwheel Artists Co-op
Type	Art gallery in Manitou Springs, Colorado
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 117
Address	102 Cañon Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829
Phone	(719) 685-1008
Hours	Thursday - 10 AM–6 PM Friday - 10 AM–6 PM Saturday - 10 AM–6 PM Sunday - 10 AM–6 PM Monday - 10 AM–6 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–6 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–6 PM
Profiles

Manitou Springs, located just a few miles from Colorado Springs, is a charming and historic town nestled at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Known for its natural springs and diverse art scene, it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. One of the must-visit places for art enthusiasts is The Commonwheel, a cooperative gallery and gift shop that showcases and sells a wide range of local artists' works.

Founded in 1974, The Commonwheel grew out of the need for a space to exhibit and sell local artists' works. Today, the gallery is a thriving hub that features a variety of artworks, including paintings, ceramics, jewelry, glass, wood, and textiles. The cooperative model enables artists to exhibit their works in a supportive and collaborative environment, while also giving them the opportunity to sell their creations directly to the public.

The Commonwheel also offers a unique shopping experience for visitors and locals alike. The gift shop section of the gallery has a collection of handmade items created by local artisans, including handcrafted candles, soaps, pottery, and jewelry. There is also a bookstore section that specializes in local history and nature books.

In addition to being a gallery and gift shop, The Commonwheel also runs art classes, workshops, and events throughout the year. These events include art shows, receptions, open mic nights, and classes for adults and children. Visitors can also participate in the annual Labor Day Arts and Crafts Festival, which attracts thousands of visitors every year.

The Commonwheel is located in the heart of Manitou Springs, just a short walk from the historic downtown area. It is open every day of the week, except for major holidays. Admission is free, but donations are always appreciated and go towards supporting the gallery and its artists.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a unique and authentic art experience, then The Commonwheel is a must-visit destination. It offers a diverse range of artworks, a gift shop full of handmade items, and events and classes that cater to both beginners and experienced artists. So, next time you're in Manitou Springs, make sure to stop by The Commonwheel gallery and experience the magic of local art.

Checking out the historic buildings on Manitou Avenue

Manitou Springs, Colorado is a charming historic town located at the base of Pikes Peak. It's known for its mineral springs, beautiful landscapes, and quaint downtown area. One of the main attractions of Manitou Springs is the historic buildings that line Manitou Avenue, the main street running through the heart of town.

If you're a history buff or just love admiring beautiful architecture, then a visit to Manitou Avenue is a must during your time in Manitou Springs. You'll find buildings dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, many of which have been restored and preserved.

One of the most iconic and recognizable buildings on Manitou Avenue is the Cliff House at Pikes Peak. This grand hotel was built in 1873 and has hosted famous guests such as Thomas Edison and Theodore Roosevelt. Today, it's still a luxury hotel and restaurant, and visitors can stop in for a meal or a drink on the outdoor patio.

Another notable building is the Manitou Spa Building, which dates back to 1914. It once housed a bathhouse where visitors could soak in the mineral springs, and now serves as a retail space for local products and souvenirs.

The Town Hall, which was built in 1912, is another beautiful building on Manitou Avenue. It's now home to the Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau and is open to visitors who want to learn more about the history of the town.

In addition to these highlights, there are dozens of other historic buildings along Manitou Avenue, including traditional brick storefronts, Victorian homes, and more. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll down the street and admire the architecture while checking out local shops and restaurants.

Overall, if you're looking for a free and interesting activity to do in Manitou Springs, checking out the historic buildings on Manitou Avenue is a great option. It's a unique way to learn about the town's past and appreciate the beauty of its architecture.

Attending a street festival or concert

Manitou Springs, a charming small town nestled at the base of Pikes Peak in Colorado, is known for its vibrant street festivals and live music concerts. One of the best ways to experience the town’s festive atmosphere, lively music scene, and eclectic local culture is to attend a street festival or concert. Here’s what you need to know to plan your free Manitou Springs experience.

Street Festivals

Manitou Springs hosts several street festivals throughout the year, including the popular Manitou Springs Wine Festival, Colorado Wine Festival, and Manitou Springs Folk Festival. These festivals bring together local wineries, restaurants, and musicians to offer residents and visitors a unique experience.

The Manitou Springs Wine Festival is held in June and features over 20 Colorado wineries, live music, and food vendors. Attendees can sample delicious local wines, purchase bottles to take home, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Manitou Springs.

Another festival, the Colorado Wine Festival, is held in August and serves up a wide range of wines from across the state. Visitors can taste wines from more than 30 Colorado wineries, enjoy food pairings, and experience live music and entertainment.

In September, the Manitou Springs Folk Festival showcases local and regional folk, bluegrass, and acoustic artists, along with workshops and activities for all ages. This festival is a perfect opportunity to experience the rich music culture of Manitou Springs.

Concerts

The town of Manitou Springs is also home to several live music venues, including the famous Manitou Springs Soda Springs Park, which hosts live music concerts throughout the year. The park is a perfect venue for outdoor summer concerts, surrounded by towering trees, a playground, and a creek that runs through the park.

Another popular venue for live music concerts is the Manitou Springs Memorial Park Amphitheater. This venue hosts weekly concerts during the summer, featuring local and regional musicians playing everything from country and folk to blues and rock.

If you’re looking for a more intimate concert experience, check out the music lineup at the local independent record store, The Glass Tipi. This cozy bookstore and record store hosts live music events featuring local artists and visiting musicians.

In conclusion, attending street festivals or concerts in Manitou Springs is an excellent way to experience the town's vibrant energy, cultural diversity, and local music scene. Whether you’re a music lover or a wine connoisseur, Manitou Springs has something to offer everyone. So pack a picnic, bring your lawn chair, and get ready to enjoy some free live music and entertainment!

Taking a nature walk along the Fountain Creek Trail

Manitou Springs is a beautiful gem in the heart of Colorado that offers an abundance of natural wonders for everyone to enjoy. If you are looking for a fun, free activity to do in the Springs, look no further than the Fountain Creek Trail. The trail runs along the creek and offers picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife.

To access the trail, head towards the Manitou Springs Memorial Park. The park is an oasis in the middle of the city and provides ample parking and a variety of amenities for visitors. Once you are parked, walk towards the creek and you will see the entrance to the trail.

The Fountain Creek Trail is a flat, easy hike that is perfect for families or individuals looking for a leisurely outing. The trail is just over two miles long and takes you through a mix of sunny meadows and shady forests, giving you a chance to experience the diversity of the local ecosystem.

As you walk along the trail, keep your eyes open for the local wildlife. Colorado boasts a rich and varied landscape, and Fountain Creek is no exception. You may see butterflies fluttering among the wildflowers, or hear the calls of birds in the trees above you. If you are lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the resident beavers that are often seen building their dams along the creek.

The trail has numerous benches and picnic tables along its route, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful lunch or snack. Take a break and enjoy the tranquil sounds of the creek as it winds its way down the valley.

The Fountain Creek Trail is also a popular spot for cyclists and joggers, so be sure to keep an eye out for them as you walk along. The trail is wide enough that everyone can share the space, but it’s important to be mindful of other trail users.

In conclusion, taking a nature walk along the Fountain Creek Trail is a beautiful and free activity that everyone should try at least once. It’s the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the natural splendor that Manitou Springs has to offer. So grab your walking shoes, pack a snack, and get ready to explore!

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